Mixing the Dough
Creaming Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and both sugars together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a light and tender cookie.
Adding Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Afterward, stir in the vanilla extract. Accordingly, this ensures that the eggs are thoroughly incorporated and the vanilla is evenly distributed.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Shaping the Cookies
Scooping Dough Evenly
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Accordingly, this helps the cookies bake evenly.
Baking Tips
Preheating the Oven
Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. Indeed, an oven thermometer can help verify that your oven is at the correct temperature.
Proper Baking Times and Temperatures
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through for even baking.
Cooling and Storing the Cookies
Cooling on Wire Racks
Let the recipe cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
Storing for Freshness
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the reicpe in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
